The Kendallville News-Sun reported the federal lawsuit alleges that Middleton was 23 when he hanged himself in October 2017 after spending 23 days in the jail following his arrest on misdemeanor false informing and resisting law enforcement charges.

The suit contends the Albion man was “continuously mocked, harassed, threatened, and denied mental health treatment” even though jail officials were told Middleton suffered from bipolar disorder and serious depression.

A message seeking comment was left Thursday for an attorney for the county’s liability insurer carrier, Travelers.